Contrary to stereotypes and myths about addicted people, there are people who look “normal” and healthy, but are in fact struggling with their inner demons because they’re addicted to drugs, alcohol, or behaviors such as gambling.

Addiction doesn’t always manifest itself as people who are emaciated, poor, homeless, and jobless. There are also people who are highly functioning but are struggling with very strong urges brought about by being addicted to substances or behaviors. And you could be one of those people. Read More

Should you tell on your friend’s addiction? Where do you draw the line between concern and meddling? Find out below.

Substance abuse can easily turn into substance addiction. In fact, there’s a thin line that separates the two, making it hard to recognize, especially on someone you know and care about, like a friend. A friend’s addiction can also be hard to face. There may be times when you wonder if you should mention about your friend’s addiction or just keep mum about it.

Dealing with a gambling addict can be stressful. Living with someone who has an addiction such as gambling brings a whole new dimension to any relationship–and all of it isn’t good. As someone who cares about the gambling addict in your life, what you can do is to let them see the consequences of their actions and be there for them should they eventually acknowledge the problem. You should also encourage them to seek help.

Problem gambling or gambling addiction may not involve drugs, but it’s also as dangerous and destructive. Find out the signs that you or someone you know may be addicted to gambling.

For many people, gambling is a popular pastime and a way to socialize. This is especially true here in the Philippines, where different forms of gambling have been part of our culture. Lotto, scratch cards, tong-its, bingo, e-games, blackjack, racing, sabong, baccarat, poker, slot machines, and so many more–these are widespread and even acceptable. And why not–these gambling activities are harmless…until you can’t stop yourself. That’s where problem gambling and gambling addiction comes in. Read More

Why do gambling addicts love the thrill of betting so much? What’s really in it for them? What goes on in their brain? Find out in this video by BBC Panorama, which follows a unique experiment that explores what goes on in the brain of a gambling addict. Read More

Process addictions involve addiction to rewarding behavior, even if it can eventually lead to a wide range of negative effects.

Not all addictions involve substances like drugs and alcohol. There are addictions that involve activities, such as sex, gambling, eating, or even shopping. These are collectively known as process addictions. Read More

When you think about drug use and addiction, you may wonder why people do it. And with this, many drug users and addicts claim that they first use it in order to escape. This attitude of escapism can then make them more prone to develop addiction, and even have a hard time to overcome it. However, there are those who argue that they use drugs to alter their minds and moods and therefore enhance their lives.

Watching an addict loved one succumb to the dangers of addiction can be heartbreaking. It can also be distressing and terrifying, often making you feel hopeless, like there’s nothing that you can do to help them.

As much as you want to help your addict loved one overcome their addiction, whether this is drugs, alcohol, or behavioral, at the end of the day the decision is up to them. Only they, the addict, can help themselves once they decide they need help and are open to addiction treatment.

Still, that doesn’t mean you can’t do anything. Here’s some tips that you can do on your end to help your addict loved one get into rehab–and soon! Read More

Addicts have a knack at making themselves believe addiction delusions so that they can go on living their lives without consequence or treatment. They do this by rationalizing their habits, particularly their drug or alcohol use, or even behavioral addictions such as gambling. Read More

Bridges of Hope uses Therapeutic Community to treat drug, alcohol, and behavioral addictions

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As a drug addict, I thought I had nothing to hope for. I was physically, emotionally, financially and spiritually messed up...It wasn't easy to change and give up the lifestyle that I was used to. Until I met and got to the place that helped me change my perception and that is Bridges of Hope. The facility helped me know and realize what I am, who I am as a daughter, a friend and a mother.

Testimonials

I am thankful for Bridges of Hope for helping me bring my husband back after many years of being addicted to meth. BH taught him how to be free from drugs, alcohol, and gambling, and find happiness in a positive and sober life.

Grace

Cavite

As a drug addict, I thought I had nothing to hope for. I was physically, emotionally, financially and spiritually messed up...It wasn't easy to change and give up the lifestyle that I was used to. Until I met and got to the place that helped me change my perception and that is Bridges of Hope. The facility helped me know and realize what I am, who I am as a daughter, a friend and a mother.

Ron

Laguna

I thought I lost everything, including myself. With the help of BH and my new-found friends in recovery, I have learned that there IS life after addiction, and now I'm fulfilling my dreams and rebuilding my life with my family. Thank you, Bridges of Hope!